and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This verse isn't just about passing on information; it's about investing in people, specifically those who have proven themselves trustworthy ("faithful men"). Paul is emphasizing a ripple effect – a chain of discipleship where teaching is multiplied, not just transferred.
and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is writing to Timothy, his protégé, offering final instructions as Paul faces his own impending death. He's urging Timothy to remain steadfast and to faithfully pass on the truth of the gospel he received, ensuring its continuation through reliable leaders who can then train others. This charge is crucial for the church's future amidst growing challenges and false teachings.
Paul isn't just sharing casual advice; he's talking about something incredibly precious. What is it that he's so serious about passing on?
The Priceless Deposit
Paul uses the word "entrust" (which comes from a Greek word meaning to place something in someone's care, like a sacred deposit). He's not talking about a hobby or a nice idea, but the core message of the Gospel.
Paul's vision goes way beyond just Timothy. What's the ultimate goal of passing on these teachings?
Ask a follow-up
Multiplying Ministry
The core of Paul's instruction is about multiplication. It's not a one-time transfer, but a chain reaction of spiritual growth and leadership development.
This emphasizes the importance of intentional discipleship. God's plan isn't just for individuals to believe, but for the faith to be faithfully transmitted and taught throughout the ages.
Understand the original words
paratithēmi · Greek Verb
The act of transferring or depositing something valuable, such as the gospel message, into the care and custody of another person to ensure its preservation and propagation.
pistos · Greek Adjective
Describes those who are reliable, trustworthy, and firmly committed to the truth of the gospel; characterized by loyalty to God and His word.
Paul's charge to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:2 is given during his final days, highlighting the urgent need to pass on the faith faithfully in a time of growing persecution and theological deviation.
c. AD 30-33
Pentecost and the Church's Birth
The Holy Spirit empowers the apostles in Jerusalem, marking the dramatic start of the Christian church and the spread of the Gospel.
c. AD 45-60
Paul's Missionary Journeys
The Apostle Paul travels extensively, establishing churches across Asia Minor and Europe, often facing persecution and opposition.
c. AD 64
Great Fire of Rome
A devastating fire sweeps through Rome, leading Emperor Nero to blame and persecute Christians, causing widespread turmoil.
c. AD 65-67— this verse
Paul's Imprisonment and Writing of 2 Timothy
The Apostle Paul, imprisoned in Rome and awaiting execution, writes his final known letter to his beloved protégé Timothy.
c. AD 67
Martyrdom of Paul
Tradition holds that the Apostle Paul is executed in Rome, marking the end of a monumental ministry but the beginning of his enduring legacy.
This passage highlights the importance of passing down God's commands diligently from one generation to the next, mirroring the entrustment mentioned in 2 Timothy.
Matthew 28:19-20Jesus' Great Commission echoes the mandate to 'go and make disciples of all nations, teaching them,' emphasizing the vital chain of discipleship and instruction.
1 Corinthians 11:23Paul recounts how he 'received from the Lord' the tradition of the Lord's Supper and then passed it on, illustrating the principle of faithful transmission of teaching.
Titus 1:5Paul instructs Titus to appoint elders in every town who can 'correctly teach,' showing the practical outworking of entrusting sound doctrine to capable leaders.
This verse isn't just about passing on information; it's about investing in people, specifically those who have proven themselves trustworthy ("faithful men"). Paul is emphasizing a ripple effect – a chain of discipleship where teaching is multiplied, not just transferred.
Paul is writing to Timothy, his protégé, offering final instructions as Paul faces his own impending death. He's urging Timothy to remain steadfast and to faithfully pass on the truth of the gospel he received, ensuring its continuation through reliable leaders who can then train others. This charge is crucial for the church's future amidst growing challenges and false teachings.
Paul is writing to Timothy, his protégé, offering final instructions as Paul faces his own impending death. He's urging Timothy to remain steadfast and to faithfully pass on the truth of the gospel he received, ensuring its continuation through reliable leaders who can then train others. This charge is crucial for the church's future amidst growing challenges and false teachings.
"and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men, who will be able to teach others also." — This verse isn't just about passing on information; it's about investing in people, specifically those who have proven themselves trustworthy ("faithful men"). Paul is emphasizing a ripple effect – a…
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Last reviewed October 2026